A new study shows that more than half the children’s car seat tested for toxic flame retardants (PFAS) contain these dangerous substances. ReportIn the US, has.
The Ecology Center, an environmental advocacy group and consumer advocate, also conducted the analysis. It found that all car seats under $100 contained flame retardant or PFAS, which means children with lower incomes are more likely to be exposed.
The Ecology Center reported that there is no evidence that countries’ flammability standards have prevented deaths from car seats over the past 50 years.
It added that many car seat companies are creating a dangerous exposure problem by failing to adhere to a broken regulation.
The study included more than 600 components from 25 seats manufactured by well-known brands in the US, EU and Canada, including Graco, Baby Trend, Evenflo, and Baby Trend.
Bromine- and phosphate-containing flame retardants have been linked to cancer, developmental disorders, endocrine disruptions, diabetes, and other serious issues. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a class that includes about 9,000 compounds. They are often used to make products waterproof, stain-, and grease resistant. These chemicals have been linked to thyroid disease, cancer, liver problems and increased cholesterol. Because they are so long-lasting in the environment, they are called forever chemicals.
The substances can be breathed-in or ingested, as they are broken off from the materials they were applied to. They can also absorb into the skin.
Overall, 55% contained a phosphorus-based fire retardant in the upholstery. Nine seats also contained bromine in their foam or upholstery.
EU-made car seats did not contain phosphorus based flame retardants. This was despite the fact that the same product sold in America did. However, some EU seats did contain bromine. This is a lesser concern as it is likely in foam that is covered with upholstery.
Four of the seats that were marketed as water-and stain-resistant had PFAS. Two strollers also contained PFAS. None of the strollers contained flame-retardants.
As alternatives to flame retardants manufacturers use wool or densely woven polyester fabric, according to Melissa Cooper Sargent (Ecology Centers green living resource director). It is difficult for manufacturers to sell flame retardant-free seating for less than $100, as the chemicals are more affordable than thicker polyester fabrics.
Cooper Sargent of the Guardian stated that companies are saying, This is as low as we can go.
This has led the Ecology Center focusing its attention on regulations it considers unnecessary.
Cooper Sargent claimed that US flammability laws stem back to cigarette producers who wanted the chemicals in furniture and car seats to stop people lighting cigarettes on fire.
Cooper Sargent explained that most car fires are caused by the engine block. This makes flame retardants ineffective. The chemicals pose a danger to firefighters, who could inhale the smoke.
Recently, the EU updated its 50-year-old flame retardant standards that were based on US regulations.
Ecology Center is urging the US Department of Transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg to follow their lead and insists that current rules unfairly expose children of lower income families. Cooper Sargent said that the proposal has the support of 40 consumer and environmental advocacy groups as well as the Juvenile Manufacturers Trade Association.
The Ecology Center stated that affordable car seats should not have chemical costs for children.